A Hidden Treasure in Your Change
Coin collecting is not only a fun hobby but also a surprising way to earn extra money. One particular gem to look for is the Roosevelt dime with a clipped planchet error—some of these have sold for up to $400,000. This special dime honors President Franklin D. Roosevelt and stands out because of a rare minting mistake.
The error, called a clipped planchet, occurs when a piece of the coin’s metal is missing, making it oddly shaped. These rare coins might still be in circulation, possibly sitting in your change, just waiting to be discovered by a sharp-eyed collector.
What Is a Clipped Planchet Error?
A planchet is the flat metal disc that is turned into a coin during minting. Occasionally, these discs are cut incorrectly, resulting in a section of the coin being missing. This leaves a smooth, curved, or straight chunk missing from the edge.
Though this error can appear on any Roosevelt dime, coins from certain years—especially the 1960s and 1970s—are the most valuable. These mistakes weren’t done on purpose by the U.S. Mint, which makes them extremely rare and appealing to coin collectors who are always hunting for unique errors.
How to Spot the Error
To identify a clipped planchet Roosevelt dime, you’ll need to look carefully at the coin’s edge. A missing piece will appear as a smooth, curved, or straight cutout, resembling a small bite. Make sure the edges are not jagged, as damage from circulation doesn’t count.
The coin should still show President Roosevelt’s profile on the front, with a torch, olive branch, and oak branch on the reverse side. Using a magnifying glass can help you inspect the edge closely. Compare it to a regular dime to notice the difference more clearly.
Feature | Clipped Planchet Dime | Normal Roosevelt Dime
Edge | Missing a piece | Full, round edge
Design | Same as normal | Standard design
Why It’s Worth So Much
What makes this clipped planchet error so valuable is its rarity. Minting mistakes are exciting for collectors, and the fewer there are, the more collectors are willing to pay. A Roosevelt dime with a clearly visible clipped planchet and in excellent shape can sell for as much as $400,000—like one that was auctioned in 2024.
The coin’s value depends on the size of the clip and its overall condition. Even dimes that are not in perfect shape can still be worth thousands, making your coin search potentially very rewarding.
Condition | Estimated Value
Average | $1,000–$10,000
Excellent | $100,000–$400,000
Where to Look for One
You don’t need to be an expert collector to find this rare coin. Begin by searching your loose change at home—wallets, jars, and piggy banks are all good places. Dimes from the 1960s and 1970s are more likely to feature valuable errors, so give extra attention to those years.
You can also check coin rolls from your bank or browse through change at garage sales and flea markets. These coins are rare, so patience is key. And remember—not to clean the coin, as doing so can reduce its value. Instead, place it gently in a cloth or coin holder for safekeeping.
What to Do If You Find One
If you think you’ve spotted a clipped planchet Roosevelt dime, take a deep breath and get it examined. You can visit a local coin dealer or a professional grading service such as PCGS or NGC. They will confirm whether it’s a real minting error and estimate its worth based on condition and clip size.
If confirmed, you can choose to sell it at auction, through a dealer, or keep it as part of your collection. Discovering such a coin can be a thrilling experience—turning a simple pocket change find into a life-changing moment. Start checking those coins—you never know what you’ll find.
Last Thought
Rare coins like the Roosevelt dime with a clipped planchet error are treasures hiding in plain sight. Whether you’re a casual change-checker or a seasoned collector, this tiny mistake could bring in huge rewards. With some patience, attention to detail, and a bit of luck, you might uncover a coin worth thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of dollars. Keep your eyes open, your coins safe, and your curiosity alive. Every dime could be the next big discovery.
FAQ
Q1: Can any clipped coin be worth thousands?
No, not all clipped coins are valuable. The worth depends on the type of coin, the size and clarity of the clip, and its condition.
Q2: How do I know the clip isn’t just damage?
Real clipped planchet errors have smooth, clean edges and sometimes show curved or straight missing parts, unlike jagged damage from wear.
Q3: Is it okay to clean the coin before selling?
No, cleaning can lower the coin’s value significantly. Always leave it as is and store it carefully until it’s evaluated.
Q4: Where should I go to sell a rare coin?
You can sell it through coin auctions, certified dealers, or get it graded first and list it on collectible marketplaces for the best value.
